Hello Stranger; travel & real life

Hi there, welcome to Hello Stranger by Maddy.

Here we’re tackling topics like body image in the outdoor industry, the ugly side of blogging, and hiking & paddling stories.

Right now, I’m exploring the Pacific Northwest while working as a sea kayaking guide. Come join me!


The paid version of Hello Stranger by Maddy just gives you access to the full experience, and lets you support me and my writing directly. This version includes…

  • Detailed eBook downloads of hiking & paddling guides sorted by region, featuring day trips, overnight routes, and cheap & good camping with google maps links.

  • A full download of Hidden Gems of the Northern Great Lakes (value $9), a hiking, kayak, and road trip guidebook for Northern Michigan, Wisconsin, and the North Shore of MN

  • Exclusive essays & photos

  • Support free trail guides for everyone and guest writers!

Why should I pay for an essay?

Great question! While the most of my essays and writing will remain free, good writing takes time and effort. Words and thoughts have value, as does my time.

The vast majority of content you consume online, including plenty of mine, is funded by ads. This incentivizes creating content designed to keep you on a page rather than providing substantial value. By subscribing to independent writers, you are funding writing and writers that don’t rely on ad money to exist.


Supporting independent writers revalues writing. Also, it’s cool! Thanks for your support!

Subscribe to Hello Stranger

essays on the outdoors, travel, and outdoor influencer culture🌲✨ come and join a community dedicated to Midwest Adventure!

People

Maddy Marquardt is a writer, photographer, and slow traveller. Usually, you can find her on the water with a camera in hand, at a local coffee shop, or loitering at outdoor gear store.